The former vice chancellor for development at the University of Tennessee at Martin has been named interim vice chancellor for university advancement by Chancellor Philip W. Conn.
Len Hoffman, who served as assistant vice chancellor and as director of development for 10 years, will begin her new position effective July 17.
“Len Hoffman is a tremendously talented and effective fund raiser,” Conn said. “She has the experience, energy and drive to take UT Martin to new heights in the arena of philanthropic support and alumni involvement. I’m certainly looking forward to working with her again.”
“Len knows the programs, the needs and the great people who support UT Martin,” said Dr. Nick Dunagan, currently the vice chancellor for development. “She did a great job here and at Austin Peay. We are fortunate to have her back.”
Hoffman has served as vice president for university advancement at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville about two years.
“Austin Peay is a campus that enjoys a great deal of autonomy and, like many state universities, has a foundation board overseeing its fund-raising activities. Serving as executive director of the foundation has been a good learning experience, and I think I am better prepared to explore creative possibilities that will continue to build UT Martin’s prestige and mission.”
Before going to Austin Peay, Hoffman also served as campaign director for UT Martin during the University of Tennessee’s 21st Century Capital Campaign. The goal for Martin was originally $9 million, but by the end of the five-year campaign more than $15 million was raised for scholarships, equipment, the library and faculty development.
“I am looking forward to coming back to UT Martin. I have family and friends here who will always make Martin ‘home’ to me,” Hoffman said.
“I’m pleased to have this opportunity to work with the current administration and to serve the university as interim vice chancellor for advancement.”
Hoffman said she has already set some goals for the newly created Office of University Advancement.
“Higher education in Tennessee is facing some real challenges. Unless there is major tax reform, private giving is going to become increasingly important in offsetting the funding shortages at all state universities. We need to look at innovative ways to increase annual giving, alumni participation and corporate support to meet those needs.
“UT Martin has a proud heritage and a bright future,” Hoffman said. “Under Nick Dunagan’s leadership as executive vice chancellor and vice chancellor for development, a solid base of support has been built,” Hoffman said. “We’ll continue building on that strong tradition with a team of talented, capable people; including Jacky Gullett, director of alumni affairs; Jeanna Curtis, director of development; and Charlie Deal, assistant director. As we celebrate our 100-year anniversary, alumni, friends, business and industry will be encouraged to continue their investment and involvement in the university.”
“Since 1900, this community has always taken a great deal of pride in having an excellent institution of higher learning,” Hoffman said. “Throughout the region, the quality and reputation of UT Martin’s academic and athletic programs is well known and is fundamental to the economic development and quality of life in our area.”